Will Jeb Bush make a return to politics?

Wednesday, December 3, 2008

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Jeb Bush has not confirmed or denied a senate run (see his statement below).

(Bay News 9) -- Who will replace Mel Martinez?

Answering that question has created a jockeying of positions among local and state politicians.

Florida Republican Sen. Mel Martinez announced he wouldn't be seeking office again in 2010.

According to Bay News 9's partner newspaper, the St. Petersburg Times, former Florida governor Jeb Bush could be among the candidates vying to replace him. Adding to the rumor: Bush has not confirmed or denied that he may be throwing his hat into the ring.

It could be a crowded race if he does.

Among the other politicians who could make a senate run: former House speaker Marco Rubio, former congressman General Bill McCollum, Tampa Democratic congresswoman Kathy Castor and current Florida chief financial officer Alex Sink.

A Jeb Bush return?

Other names bandied about are Florida congressmen Adam Putnam and Vern Buchanan. (See their statements below.)

Sink said Tuesday that she wasn't interested, but sources tell Bay News 9 that she may be interested after all.

Sink's name has also been brought up as a possible contender to Gov. Charlie Crist who is expected to run for re-election in 2010. If Sink decides to run for Martinez's seat, she won't be running for governor.

According to other sources, a Bush advisor said the former governor has received e-mails of encouragement for a senate run from Republican party officials and elected officials.

This is not the first time rumors have speculated about Jeb Bush's political future.

Two years ago near the end of his term as governor, he told Tallahassee reporters he didn't know what the political future held for him, ruling out only the possibility of a presidential run.

Statement from Jeb Bush's office

"In light of Senator Martinez's recent announcement, Governor Bush has not ruled out running for the U.S. Senate. He will give it thoughtful consideration in the coming weeks and months. Governor Bush hopes to play a constructive role in the future of the party, advocating ideas and polices to get the conservative cause back on track.

"Governor Bush remains focused on the important policy issues facing our country in these challenging times, chiefly education reform. We need to provide a world-class quality of education to prepare all American students to succeed in the competitive global marketplace. Governor Bush commends Senator Martinez on his extraordinary legacy of public service."

Statement from Vern Buchanan's office

Spokeswoman Sally Tibbetts said, "Congressman Buchanan's phone has been ringing off the hook since the Senator's announcement. He is flattered that people are encouraging him to run for Senate. He is very happy with his job now representing the people of Florida 13 in the House but he hasn't ruled out running for Senate."

Statement from Adam Putnam's office

"All that Adam has said publicly at this time is that he is flattered to be considered. Having just won reelection, he has been focusing on the work ahead for the 12th District. I am sure he will discuss any future plans at the appropriate time."